Maintaining fire dampers: The importance of fire safety in ventilation

Importance of fire dampers

Fire dampers may not be the most glamorous part of fire safety, but they are one of the most crucial. If they do not have the appropriate obstacles, the ductwork and ventilation systems of any building can easily exacerbate a fire scenario by passing smoke and flames throughout the building quickly. This makes firefighting a much more difficult task, as it can spread sporadically.

Regulations state that fire dampers must be checked annually on spring loaded dampers and every two years on motorised dampers and immediately fixed or replaced if they are found to be at fault. The regulations are even more strict for hospitals, as they state they must be inspected annually, making it even more pertinent. Fortunately, Ductbusters are on hand to carry out this work and can easily assess the condition of hospital ductwork.

It can’t be overstated how crucial these tests are. Not only do they leave any organisation legally exposed, they can contribute to a fire scenario with disastrous outcomes.

Fire dampers should be installed into all ductwork and ventilation systems, regardless of the business occupying the building. Fire safety should be of the utmost importance no matter what kind of business you run, so make sure your fire dampers are up to date and within legal regulations.

What to look out for

As with anything, fire dampers degrade over time, and when combined with poor maintenance, they can quickly stop being functional. This can be due to a whole host of technical reasons, such as jammed or corroded springs, collapsed blades, or a build-up of dust or pollution. If spotted, these issues can be rectified easily which is why it is crucial to have a company such as Ductbusters on hand.

We are also able to see if the fire dampers were installed incorrectly. We have previously seen many examples of dampers installed the wrong way around! However, perhaps the most crucial check of all is to ensure that the fusible links have not parted. As dampers are metal curtains that shut when heat or fire causes the fusible link to melt, it is vital that this aspect of the damper is fully functional.

Ductbusters can accurately advise on the exact function dampers have; which ones are correct for your ventilation system; and what needs to be looked out for during any routine inspection. We ensure that you and your organisation are fully protected and safe.

Ductbusters offer fire damper drop testing on-site so you can rest assured that your fire dampers are working at full capacity ahead of their annual or two-year service. Find out more about the service here: http://ductbusters.co.uk/

Are you legal? Contact Ductbusters for more information on fire damper safety.